5TH TECH & GADGETS ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2021
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Navigating through a digital,
pandemic world
Leveraging power of tech in new normal By P.Y. Deligero and Rommel Bong R. Fuertes Jr.
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ODERNIZATION has resulted in great technological advancements throughout the years. It has made day-to-day activities easier, accessible, and safer for everyone to enjoy. Recently, technology has also played a key role in empowering people in their fight against COVID-19. Ever since the Philippines fell to its knees in March of last year following community quarantines imposed as a safety precaution in different parts of the country, Filipinos have struggled to fully understand the danger and severity of the virus behind the current global pandemic. Although the light at the end of the tunnel still seems far away for the Philippines, science and health experts have turned to technology to support their mission to educate citizens in the battle against the virus. THE LITERAL ‘MOBILITY’ OF MEDICAL HELP With hospitals all over the country at full capacity due to the overcrowding of patients, the country needed an alternative to providing aid and consultation to worried citizens at home. And with the threat of the virus looming above their heads, people are taking every extra step to secure their health to avoid contracting the disease. KonsultaMD, a health tech service provided by Globe to give Filipinos access to doctor consultation in the comfort of their own homes, hopes to
Master the Xceptional with the groundbreaking new X70 co-engineered with Zeiss
bring a solution to this pressing concern. Although the service has been used solely for consultation and check-ups in the past, it has done a great deal in helping the country and its people since the beginning of the pandemic. In August of last year, doctors were unable to travel to different cities due to existing lockdown protocols. This gave rise to the relationship of local government units with KonsultaMD. “Telehealth is more relevant now more than ever. People need access to doctors, telehealth provides that even to remote areas where no doctors are present. You can consult a KonsultaMD doctor anytime, anywhere thru voice or video,” said Cholo Tagaysay, KonsultaMD’s COO in a webinar held last August 26. LGUs struggling to help provide care to their sick citizens can turn to KonsultaMD if their constituents need medical help. Another technological help the country has enjoyed thus far is an application that can potentially prevent a “super spreader” to enter public institutions. Staysafe.PH is a mobile app that monitors people entering grocery malls,
public places, or offices. Launched in April last year, the app has done its fair share of monitoring the COVID-19 virus in the Philippines. The app helps the Department of Health’s efforts in contact tracing. It is also heavily required in public establishments where people walk in every day. Staysafe uses an interface that reports whether a person is sick or not based on their temperature. The temperature checks on entrances of establishments are needed for users to report on the app, thus helping DOH’s reporting system. While mobile help and COVID prevention have helped the country, technology has also helped more interactively.
THE INTERNET AS A TOOL AGAINST COVID-19 GMA Public Affairs has taken advantage of technology and has used it to promote the number one weapon Filipinos have against the dreaded virus: vaccination. Launching their online campaign #JabWellDone, the news outlet has sought Filipino netizens to encourage people who are still hesitant about vaccines. Since its launch in April, the campaign garnered mentions from over eight million users on Facebook in the first week alone. This effort has helped the Philippines gain more believers in what could be our biggest weapon for
Rise of E-commerce in PH
herd immunity in the country. And speaking of herd immunity, a Twitter user has helped netizens find out our medical standing and how far we are from reaching herd immunity. Twitter account @ HerdImmunityPH notifies Twitter users weekly on the percentage of vaccinated people in the country. The account takes its data from the DOH, NTF, and PSA. Their accuracy reportage of vaccine outreach can potentially encourage Filipinos to get vaccinated the soonest to reach the expected time frame for herd immunity faster. According to their most recent report from August 15, the Philippines have over 11.05 percent of fully vaccinated people, while over 13.15 percent have been inoculated with a first dose. Their latest estimation for herd immunity points to March of next year. But with technology’s help and vaccine rollouts increasing, the country may be inching a bit closer to that objective. With the internet as an available resource that the public can leverage against the pandemic and the concerns it raises, LGUs and private institutions can continue to develop new platforms and campaigns to raise the Filipinos’ defenses when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic. And in a world where the internet has become prevalent in everyone’s lives, proper dissemination of information through campaigns and apps can raise the level of public awareness which could boost the chances of them rising above the current situation.
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LG’s new monitor line creates an immersive experience to meet every user’s needs
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Navigating through a digital, pandemic world 5th Tech & Gadgets Anniversary issue
Online interaction in work, education faces challenges HP equips BPO partners with tech solutions toward sustainable growth
By Rommel Bong R. Fuertes Jr.
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HILE the country has yet to regain normalcy in the education sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic, online applications and sites have helped Filipino students catch up with their lessons in the confines of their own homes.
These online apps have not just helped colleges and universities alone, but also companies and offices that have, for the meantime, refrained from physical meetings. With the rise of these online platforms, interaction with colleagues and classmates can be made with just a snap of a finger. With face-to-face classes still expected to be limited in low-risk COVID-19 areas, the best compromise students and teachers have lies in the power of online curriculum. THE PROS
Modern innovations of the internet gave rise to applications and websites that allow students to learn even in remote areas. In comes Zoom, a teleconference software used by teachers and professors to communicate their lessons through their students’ laptop, tablet and phone screens, wherever they may be. The software supports high definition video sharing which explains why it’s one of the most used applications for colleges, universities and even office meetings alike. A premium Zoom account can be purchased to accompany more participants in one room and for longer meeting lengths. These accounts are usually purchased by schools or offices for their employees. Still, without a premium account, Zoom can be pretty useful. Google— American multinational technology company that specializes in Internetrelated services and products, has its own app “Meets” particularly for office meetings with participants being in different areas. However, it has also been one of the primary apps used to hold online classes. Unlike Zoom, it uses minimal data or internet usage making it a more optional alternative for students using mobile load to attend classes. Modular papers may be a chore for other students, but that’s where more online alternatives could be of big help. Sites such as Blackboard and Canvas are used by universities and colleges due to their convenient feature of uploading module lessons and quizzes at a short time’s notice. Schools such as UST, UE and FEU use these sites to help their students optimize their learning. These applications serve as an important tool not just for the modern day students, but also for universities and their quest of relay-
Latest HP Live episode tackles sustainable impact as business imperative
With face-to-face classes still expected to be limited in low-risk COVID-19 areas, the best compromise students and teachers have lies in the power of online curriculum.
ing lessons. However, not all applications fit the bill. THE CONS
The highly controversial Respondus Lockdown Browser has received complaints from students around the nation. University of San Carlos for instance, has aired its dismay over the app which caused them several system failures. USC’s student body Rise for Education Alliance posted on their Facebook page an appeal against the use of the Respondus Browser last March. The main objective and feature of the browser is to avoid switching tabs while on an exam to prevent cheating. This locks the user on the browser, and only on the browser, until exams are finished. However, the software allegedly caused several problems in the students’ personal computers. “We understand that this is all in good faith, to avoid cheating and to uphold integrity. However, this might not have been the right way to relay to us. There are other alternatives that we can go for if you really do not want any possibility of cheating,” their statement read. Still, however, one of the main problems of online learning isn’t just reliant on one application. The scarcity of internet signal in provinces remains one of the biggest hardships students face daily to cope with the new normal of learning. As of writing, the Philippines is the only country in Southeast Asia left that has not reopened their schools for physical learning. And although President Rodrigo Duterte has approved limited face-to-face classes in a maximum of 120 public and private schools in areas deemed low-risk for COVID-19, the Department of Education has yet to release the list of schools that would participate in the pilot run.
IN its most recent HP Live webinar, HP and Intel, along with other industry experts, discussed the impact of new work styles, the move to grow and becoming future-ready, as well as what it means for businesses to integrate sustainability into their operations. Aimed at raising awareness on sustainability the webinar, “The Future is Calling: Equipping the BPO Industry towards a Sustainable Shift” highlighted the sustainable impact and security trends, issues, and solutions for the businesses and outsourcing (BPO) industry in the new normal. The BPO industry is one of the main economic growth drivers in the Philippines. To ensure business performance without compromising people’s safety and health, BPO companies have implemented more flexible working arrangements, and are now on their collective journey toward sustainable growth. “The direction for us post-pandemic is not to get back to the old normal but to move forward in a new era of innovation and long-term, sustainable growth. This is why sustainable impact is not just a good-to-have but a business imperative and we, at HP, will work together with our partners in the BPO industry in this shared commitment of driving positive, lasting change to our people, planet, and the community,” said Christian Reyes, Philippines Managing Director of HP Inc. PARTNERS FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH: FINDING THE RIGHT TOOLS AND SOLUTIONS To make it easier for businesses to embed sustainability into their operations and IT infrastructure, HP designed a solution that reduces the cost and complexity of device lifecycle management. The HP Device as a Service provides the right devices, repair services, and AI-driven analytics in a predictable payment with flexible terms. “It’s really about equipping businesses with the right technology and the best security solutions. Traditional IT is no longer productive and companies would have to think about what they need to increase their capabilities onsite and remotely—it could be automation, AI, data analytics, or cloud-based technology. The right kind of solution enables companies to support their workforce better and ensure sustainable operations. It will allow them to monitor, manage, and even predict issues and address them proactively instead of through reactive actions,” Kanogorn Lertsrisuriya—Regional Services Category Manager, HP Inc. said. Last year, during the first months of shifting to remote work due to sudden lockdown restrictions, a great number of the workforce experienced major issues in working longer hours to compensate for “low productivity” due to technical problems, unreliable internet connection, and unstable electricity supplies. According to a report, this led to 51% of agents resigning in the Philippines.
“We managed to lower our attrition because we were able to offer a work-from-home set-up which we didn’t have before in the BPO space. This was made possible by enhancing the security aspect of our operations. We also need to collaborate and listen more for us to be able to create sustainable and relevant solutions for issues concerning our people. None of the BPO companies were prepared for this pandemic and we all learn as we move along. What we can assure is that we’re prioritizing the safety and well-being of our people,” said Jojo Uligan, CCAP President. Marwin Barrozo, Philippines Director for IT Delivery Service at Transcom added, “Even with the pandemic, Transcom grew in 2020 compared to 2019 because we were able to adapt to the changes and found ways for us to retain our workforce such as modifying site operations for brick and mortars, providing infrastructure assistance to those who are working from home, and facilitating the recruitment process onsite and virtually.” Meanwhile, green practices and trends are also making their way to outsourcing firms—from making sustainable decisions in the use of office equipment to promoting environmental-related programs for employees and developing long-term goals aligned with planet protection plans. With sustainability becoming a priority for an increasing number of companies over the years, more are proving that sustainable solutions can positively impact bottom lines. Barrozo shared, “When the pandemic reached the Philippines last year, we reviewed our sustainability program called Transcom Cares which focuses on six courses of areas that we consider the most beneficial to our operations. Through that program, we were able to better handle and manage amid the health crisis, becoming a more successful and sustainable company.” HP has also been leading sustainable impact initiatives for years and has created its world-first sustainable PC and print portfolio through a commitment to energy efficiency, recycled materials usage, product longevity, design for product end-of-life, and innovative packaging. Recently, the company outlined its agenda to help expand access to digital equity and advance human rights for all through its extensive programs within and outside the organization. And for the second consecutive year, in 2020, these efforts on sustainable impact have helped HP win more than $1 billion in new sales. For more information on how you can optimize your working experiences from home and remote work sites, please visit HP.com. To learn more about our innovative solutions for BPO, you may send a direct inquiry to Maria Elenita Tady, Partner Business Manager, at elen.tady@hp.com or thru +63 917 5901419.
Big discount at MR.D.I.Y. for entire September IT’S a September to remember as MR.D.I.Y.’s Proudly Made in the Philippines Promo offers its customer a month-long discount scheme of up to 20% price off on selected home improvement and essential goods that every member of the family will surely love. The good news is that there is a MR.D.I.Y. near you —181 stores of them nationwide—where you can grab the items you need for any occasion. Proudly Made in the Philippines promo highlights local brands and its products in various categories namely essential goods, household, furnishing, car accessories, pet accessories, and many more. Understanding the need to manage our budget properly
These online apps have also helped companies and offices with their meetings.
Online banking: Easy, convenient, safe By Rommel Bong R. Fuertes Jr. THE COVID-19 pandemic has hit the country in a number of ways, including the way people do their banking. With the restriction of physical activities on cities placed under strict community quarantine protocols, banks needed a way to serve their constituents at the comfort of their own homes, realizing that one must evolve in the face of changing times. This realization paved the way for the emergence of digital banking, which is turning out to be a necessity in the modern era. While banks required individuals prepandemic to head over to their branches to make a deposit, they now encourage users to do their banking online. Banks such as Banco De Oro, Metrobank, Security Bank and BPI have released phone applications for their members who aim to use remote banking. There are also exclusively digital banks rising to the occasion in the pandemic. Examples of these are CIMB (baced by GCash) and ING bank. Unlike the previous banks stated, they are not completely
accessible to the public physically, but their digital arm is what makes them sought-after by new applicants. Money transfer has also been very much of a need for Filipinos at these times, especially when they need to send money to their loved ones in the provinces or even out of the country. Forunately, digital banks also offer money transferring services for their users with just a little transferring fee. Banks often charge P15 to 25, depending on how big the money being transferred is. Furthermore, these banks offer services to several necessary services such as online shopping, paying bills and transportation woes. Lastly, these digital banks make efforts to prevent fraudulent transactions. To apply for a digital bank, you’d need to submit a valid ID and they also use twofactor authentication, ensuring safety of the account. With the changing times, our country’s banks are taking every proper step possible to innovate the term “banking” in a more progressive way for their users.
during these difficult times, MR.D.I.Y. offers budgetfriendly deals making low-priced products even lower have been just awesome! Consider this as the early Christmas treat from one of the leading home and life improvement retailers in Southeast Asia—MR.D.I.Y. Can’t wait to see all the great deals? Head to MR.D.I.Y.’s official website at www.mrdiy. com/ph or its official Facebook page @mrdiyPH and check out the featured items to ensure that your upcoming visit will be fast, safe, and efficient. See you at your favorite MR.D.I.Y. store nationwide. Happy shopping!
Navigating through a digital, pandemic world 5th Tech & Gadgets Anniversary issue
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2021
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Rise of E-commerce in PH By P.Y. Deligero
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ACK when the world was still functioning without any restrictions on who can go out, people of all ages enjoyed going to malls, stores and outlets to shop. They would spend hours browsing through racks and piles of items to find the ideal purchase to take home. That changed in early 2020 when the COVID-19 virus struck, causing people to be confined in their homes for their safety against the global pandemic. Yet being stuck indoors didn’t stop people from shopping for their favorite brands or acquiring new items. Thanks to the internet and various ecommerce platforms, Filipinos can enjoy shopping with just a few clicks. In the Philippines, several e-commerce platforms offer a variety of goods that range from cosmetics, clothes, food, household items, and more. Through these sites, people have found items they needed or didn’t know they needed. Online shopping has already been around even before the COVID-19 pandemic shifted everything into a different dynamic. But without any restrictions, not many people were inclined to use the service, especially since many people are skeptical about the internet. Now, many Filipinos are frequent users of ecommerce sites and participate in the events and contests that it hosts such as monthly sales that catch the attention of numerous consumers. THE PROS AND CONS OF E-COMMERCE
Simply put, e-commerce refers to the buying and selling of goods and services over the internet. Popular e-commerce platforms around the world include Amazon and eBay, while most Filipinos are familiar with Shopee, Lazada and Zalora. But because it relies on the internet, not many Filipinos were eager to try out this new method of shopping. This stems from their fear of being scammed into giving personal details and losing money to suspicious websites. Eventually, they learned to overcome this fear, especially since their options have become limited due to the pandemic. Online shopping has also become a coping mechanism for others who find comfort through retail therapy.
From 2020 to 2021, there has been a significant rise in the number of e-commerce users in the Philippines, presenting the benefits that people from both ends of the platform can enjoy. In e-commerce users, for both consumers and sellers, the top reason why they use such platforms is that they have the benefit of buying and selling items without having to leave their houses to travel to physical stores. And compared to items in physical stores, many items found on e-commerce websites are significantly more affordable, thus enticing more buyers. Consumers are also given a wider selection of items to choose from. E-commerce websites close the geographical gap between the availability of items to consumers in select areas. However, the downside to this arrangement is that buyers can’t personally inspect an item before purchasing, thus giving them a sense of uneasiness on whether or not their purchase is worth it. Sellers, on the other hand, are required to disclose all the information about an item to avoid any misunderstandings that often happen in online spaces. Using e-commerce platforms also generates income for delivery services that serve as the bridge between buyer and seller. Although this keeps more people from going outside of their houses to buy items themselves, it requires more time and patience because delivery usually takes some time before it reaches consumers. And since delivery services have to brave the open roads to fulfill their tasks, there’s no telling what would happen to items during transit. The pros of e-commerce, or online shopping, are evident in its accessibility and the opportunities it presents to buyers, sellers, and even services in the middle. On the other hand, its cons can also be easily avoided by asking the right questions, full disclosures, and proper handling from the consumer, seller, and delivery services, respectively. HOW IT CAN BE IMPROVED
While many Filipinos have already started leveraging the power of e-commerce sites, there are still those who face certain roadblocks when it comes to accessing these platforms. The first problem is with the internet connection. It is no secret that the Philippines lags behind its Asian neighborhoods when it comes to an internet connection. The internet has become important to the modern world, as having limited to no access to it hinders the progress of many. A solution to this comes from the government and telecommunication companies. They can es-
There has been a significant rise in the number of e-commerce users in the Philippines, presenting the benefits that people from both ends of the platform can enjoy.
tablish more telecommunication towers that provide a signal to far areas so that more people could have access to the internet and e-commerce sites. Having more telecommunication towers also allow for faster internet speed so users can have a better browsing experience. But aside from having the government and private sectors weigh in on the improvement of ecommerce, the platforms themselves should also contribute to the development of their operations. One example is by establishing easily accessible customer service hotlines to answer concerns from buyers, sellers, and even delivery services. Having a team that promptly addresses questions or problems can generate more users who find the site trustworthy. E-commerce platforms can also invest in new technology that could make the shopping experience easier and more relatable to many users in the country. The COVID-19 pandemic put the world to an abrupt stop, causing people to refrain from going out
and doing things they enjoy, such as shopping. But thanks to the rise of technology and the internet, there are solutions available to every person’s needs. E-commerce sites have helped people in numerous ways. It has also aided in keeping trade and the Philippine economy afloat because the people have taken their usual transactions into an online space where they can leverage the power of technology. For those who are looking for a quick retail therapy session or a source of extra income, they can turn to e-commerce and harness its potential. Through these platforms, they can get their money’s worth and find new opportunities accessible only in the online space. But like most things, online shopping and selling should be done with caution. Although e-commerce platforms and other services have established themselves to become credible brands, there’s no harm in being careful with sharing private information with others.
Master the Xceptional with the groundbreaking new X70 co-engineered with Zeiss vivo X70, the Next Imagery Master, lets you capture life’s best moments better with best-in-class mobile photography technology CREATE new memories and capture extraordinary moments with the Next Imagery Master that is the vivo X70 that incorporates the trusted expertise of Zeiss optic technology with the latest in mobile technology. This long-term strategic partnership started with the X60 series and revolutionized the way we share our world view through images taken with the vivo x ZEISS coengineered imaging system. The X60 series contributed to vivo’s vigorous growth in the second quarter of 2021, making it one of the top smartphone brands in the Philippines with a market share of 18.2% according to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker. The vivo X70 builds on this powerful collaboration to present upgraded mobile performance and Zeiss camera capabilities to level up how we capture our extraordinary moments in the most challenging photography situations. With its unique Zeiss Optics-Zeiss T* Coating, the vivo X70 captures ever-vivid portraits of your favorite subjects with features such as the classic Zeiss styles in Portrait Mode: Biotar, Distagon, Planar, and Sonnar. It also comes with a Gimbal 3.0 sensor that utilizes Zeiss optics to offer breakthrough innovations in mobile imaging technology. You can gain mastery of mobile night photography with features such as Zeiss Superb Night Camera and AI Algorithm that allows users to preview and manually adjust the exposure intensity to the desired brightness of the photo. Experience the Next Imagery Master and own Xceptional living with the vivo X70, which lands in stores soon. For more information and new product updates visit www.vivoglobal.ph, and vivo’s official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
Experience the Next Imagery Master with the new vivo X70, landing in stores soon
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Navigating through a digital, pandemic world 5th Tech & Gadgets Anniversary issue
Navigating through a digital, pandemic world 5th Tech & Gadgets Anniversary issue
By Charles Arvin Dantes and Angelica Villanueva
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ITH the continuous rise of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines, most of us are left with no choice but to stay at home and carry on with what we are doing. Whether it’s online distance learning, working from home, or even entertaining ourselves, we need to do all of these from the comfort of our homes.
Ever since the lockdown started, people have been setting up their workplace and studying in their own creative way—from their working table to the gadgets—in order to adjust and adapt to the situation. But since we’re now on the “third season” of our lockdown and you’re still looking for smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic items that will suit your needs and lifestyle, the Manila Standard team has gathered some of the most appropriate gadgets, appliances and tech items to help you on what to have in your next haul. SMARTPHONES People have relied on their smartphones nowadays with their compact design and innovative features. Through these, doing tasks has become easier and more accessible for us. The team has listed down some of the smartphones that, we think, you might consider for your work-from-home setup or online distance learning. 1. Apple iPhone 12 If you’re a person who’s looking for a smartphone that can be used in multiple and various tasks, then iPhone 12 is definitely the ideal phone for you. The iPhone 12 is incomparable to other smartphones in terms of quality and performance. It is powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic processor with a dual-camera called “computational photography,” or digital technology to get the best images in all conditions. The iPhone 12 Pro also includes a seven-element lens with an ultrawide angle feature giving a 120-degree field of view, along with a 52 mm focal length telephoto lens perfect for those who are into a sidehobby of photography this pandemic. It has an aluminum side frame and a glass back that comes in five different colors—black, white, red, green, and blue—which is a plus point because you’ll get to choose what color you prefer. 2. vivo V21
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Gadgets, appliances, tech items that we love in the pandemic cases App Multiplier and MultiWindow, matching a person’s busy lifestyle. The new HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.6 supports new Tablet-PC Multi-screen Collaboration5 capabilities: Mirror Mode, Extend Mode and Collaborate Mode. 4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 May it be note-taking, drawing, watching videos, or even playing, this Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 got you covered with its powerful design featuring its 13MP Main and 5MP Ultra Wide camera with flash as well as an 8MP front camera. If you’re also looking for a tablet that delivers an immersive and enjoyable viewing experience, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is equipped with an 11-inch LTPS Display. It also comes with an improved S Pen with ultralow latency best paired the device seamless screen display. LAPTOPS To continue the list, Manila Standard also searched for the best laptops to use for work, gaming, and education. Ranging from a high-end laptop to a budgetfriendly notepad, here is a short list of the best laptops in the business. 1. Acer Swift 3 Acer Swift 3 boasts of a slim, lightweight, and stylish design perfect for working at home and on the move. The latest NVIDIA GPU, INTEL CPU, and long battery life are housed inside a choice of displays. Acer Swift 3 is built to be carried always thanks to its aluminum and magnesium-aluminum metal chassis. It weighs as little as 1.19 kg and is as thin as 15.95mm. Other than its housing, Acer Swift 3 has an improved display on the screen due to the addition of Acer Color Intelligence, even as ExaColor provides enhanced color contrast. 2. HP EliteBook 840 G8 If you are looking for a laptop that will help you multitask, HP EliteBook 840 G8 is the best choice for you. With the HP EliteBook 840’s in-
novative features, collaboration among the team is made easier. Connectivity won’t be a problem with the laptop’s optional quad-core 11th Gen Intel® Core™ vPro® processors The HP EliteBook 840’s high performance allows up to 32% faster office productivity and remarkable responsiveness make it a reliable partner, especially when working on urgent deadlines. HP EliteBook 840 also sports top-of-the-line security features. For instance, it has a remarkable tamper lock intrusion detection system that will send an alert if someone attempts to open it, prompting the system to require an administrator password to restart the system. 3. IdeaPad Slim 3i For day-to-day hustlers, Lenovo’s IdeaPad Slim 3i is a good running mate for an everyday grind to work, school, and other daily tasks you need computing. IdeaPad Slim 3i comes with a minimum of 8GB RAM and an ultrafast PCIe NVMe Solid-State Drive (SSD) storage that can have up to 1TB capacity. Lenovo is shaping the future and has chosen to release all-new IdeaPad notebooks powered by 11thgen Intel Core processors with 8GB RAM and higher to provide customers more power and speed in doing daily tasks. 4. Razer Book 13 The Razer Book 13 is Razer’s idea of joining the general market outside the gaming industry. The Book 13, is a more office-friendly version of the company’s Razer Blade Stealth gaming laptop with a 13.4-inch display with a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, fast mobile performance, long battery life, and enough connection options to make working from home easier. ELECTRONICS/APPLIANCES Innovative gadgets have caught our team’s radar and we are happy to list new and up and coming electronic items, television sets and other appliances this year. 1. Steam Deck Valve, one of the biggest video games companies in the world, surprised everyone with the announcement of a portable handheld gaming PC called Steam Deck. Steam Deck allows players to play their games on Steam Library while on the go, proving gaming never stops wherever you are. Drawing similarities with Nintendo’s Switch, Valve made sure that Steam Deck is cut above the rest as its chipset sports AMD Zen 2 Processor AMD RDNA 2 with 8 compute units for its GPU, 16GB ram, and three different models with different internal storage sizes.
fast charging. Its high-resolution 6.8” FHD+ 1080P provides a sharper and clearer display. 6. Cherry Mobile Aqua S10 Pro Cherry’s newest flagship phone, the Cherry Mobile Aqua S10 Pro is its first-ever smartphone that runs on Android 11, with 30W super fast charge capability, and features a punch-hole display. From vlogging, to doing TikTok videos, the Cherry Aqua S10 is one capable phone that also boasts of a massive 6.67″ FHD+ Trueview Punch-hole Display, Quad AI Camera 48MP (Main) + 5MP (Wide-Angle) + 2MP (Macro) + 2MP (Depth) and 16MP front camera for better video quality. The budget-friendly phone also has a Mediatek Helio G90 chipset for smooth gaming experience, a highly responsive screen and brilliant image quality. 7. Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G More and more people are now turning into content creators with all the time that they have this pandemic. Well, in that case, Samsung has released earlier this year their Galaxy S21 Series 5G, and among them is the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. Content creators, photographers, and videographers alike can take advantage of Director’s View, 108MP camera, lenses that record in 4K at 60fps, Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display, 5nm process technology, and the S-Pen when creating their content. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G has two bold colorways Phantom Silver or Phantom Black, and both come with 256GB models with 12GB RAM. 8. Nokia C1 Plus To the budget conscious, who still want a solid smartphone, the Nokia C1 Plus, the Turn to D3 lowest-priced 4G Nokia smartphone yet, may be the best deal. With the Nokia C1 Plus, fans can enjoy sharp conCheck out #ShopeeFinds to discover trending items for less, such as gadgets and tech accessories tent throughout – high-quality selfies and videos, apps and texts that pop, and immersive entertainment -- at the palm of the hand. The Nokia C1 Plus boasts style that lasts inside and out with its sleek, solid polycarbonate body that continues to honour the award-winning durability Nokia phones are known for and a 2,500mAh1 battery that you can rely on all day. Boosted by 4G, the experiences on the Nokia C1 Plus are smooth and powerful with data speeds up to 10 times faster than its predecessor. TABLETS When smartphones begin to develop more features, tablets have somehow become a second option. However, some still CALLING all Pinoys who struggle with staying ahead perfect for video calls. Its USB ports can be connected prefer to have a tablet in doing their school of trends: #ShopeeFinds is your one-stop-shop for the to multiple devices, such as laptop, mobile, or charger. projects or work presentations. Listed belatest fads and more! low are some of the team’s suggestions for On #ShopeeFinds, you’ll find trending products on FOR ASPIRING VLOGGERS AND CONTENT a great tablet deal. social media, all on one page. In the tech category, for CREATORS 1. Lenovo Tab P11 5G instance, you can discover in-demand smartwatches Shoot high-quality videos and Lenovo has proven that tablets never and accessories, including cute phone cases, vlogging photos at home with a trusty get out-of-style. With its Lenovo Tab P11 must-haves, selfie tools, and more. To check it out, just Bluetooth Selfie Stick. Connect it 5G, this premium tablet is dedicated to 5G type #ShopeeFinds using Shopee’s search bar. Scroll to your phone via Bluetooth, set it connectivity, giving its users endless ways down the page for the Takeover Calendar, where up as a tripod or simply hold it up, to enjoy learning, working, and entertainyou can discover upcoming trends across different then start shooting. Turn on the ment. categories. Don’t forget to claim your free shipping built-in LED light for brighter, wellDesigned to be ultra-portable, Lenovo and cashback vouchers on the page as well. If you love lit videos. Use this opportunity to Tab P11 5G elevates experiences for hyTikTok, you can also check out more #ShopeeFinds practice shooting for future travel vlogs, or just have fun brid work, play, and learning. on Shopee Philippines’ official account. creating content for school, work, or yourself! Moreover, this new model has subHere’s a quick roundup of trendy tech #ShopeeFinds 6GHz 5G4 networks that will help you you shouldn’t miss out on this September 23 to FOR THOSE WHO DEPEND ON THEIR PHONES stay connected and even download your October 6: FOR BOTH WORK AND PLAY favorite shows in seconds. This cute, shockproof Pop 2. Apple iPad Pro M1 FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO LEVEL UP THEIR Bubble Phone Case won’t just Same with the iMac, this iPad Pro is FITNESS GAME dress up your phone, it’ll protect powered with next-gen silicon delivering Keep track of your fitness progress it from bumps, scratches, and falls high-speed performance. with a Garmin Running Watch. too. With its bubble wrap-inspired The Apple iPad Pro with M1 chip feaThis smartwatch monitors your design, you can also use it as a tures dual rear-facing cameras with 12heart rate and tracks your pace and stress reliever during jam-packed and 10-megapixel sensors, and 12-megadistance covered. It also features days at work or school. pixel for the front camera, perfect for apps for running, cycling, indoor Discover trends in tech and those who are having their online classes track, treadmill, elliptical, cardio, plenty of other categories at shopee.ph/m/shopee-finds. and online meetings. and yoga. While you’re on the go, Want to get in on another trend? For safe and With the Pro M1 designed with a Liquse this smartwatch to receive notifications and control convenient payments, go cashless with ShopeePay, uid Retina XDR mini-LED screen, usmusic playing on your phone. your all-in-one e-wallet which you can use to Buy ers get to enjoy their viewing experience Load, Pay Bills, and Scan to Pay at multiple merchants while watching their favorite videos. FOR WFH EMPLOYEES WITH LOTS OF ONLINE nationwide. Activate and top up your ShopeePay wallet 3. HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.6 MEETINGS EVERY DAY this September 30 to avail of these ShopeePay-exclusive Considered as HUAWEI’s “most powMake sure you look extra good for offers: up to 50% bills cashback from over 60 billers, up erful tablet” yet, HUAWEI MatePad Pro all your online meetings with Puluz to 50% off on mobile load, and ₱1 Deals from Puregold, 12.6 is equipped with the fastest Kirin proLED Ring Lights. With 40 pieces Potato Corner, Seaoil, and more. cessor 9000E with liquid cooling system, of energy-saving and skin toneand a 12.6-inch HUAWEI OLED Fullenhancing LED beads, this lightweight Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store View display. and portable lighting equipment is or Google Play. Giving a seamless tablet experience, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.6 also show-
Score these trendy, affordable social media favorites from your Go-To Budol Source, #ShopeeFinds
The vivo V21 is designed for people who live a fast-paced digital lifestyle. Through its built-in 8GB RAM, it delivers the users a faster browsing experience and with this kind of feature included in vivo V21, users can have a lag-free experience as they play video games, music, access social media, and productivity apps, all at once. vivo also offers the latest camera technologies in its V21 series. Its front camera holds a 44MP resolution, while its rear camera has a 64MP display. These features packed inside vivo’s thinnest smartphone yet (7.29mm and 176g light), make it one of the brand’s products that offer the best valuefor-money. 3. realme 8 5G realme has once again released another revolutionary offering alongside their other smartphones— the realme 8 5G. It has Dimensity 700 5G Processor promising a exceptional performance while efficiently consuming power, extending battery life to keep you connected for longer. It boasts a 90Hz Ultra Smooth Display, 5000mAh massive battery, and a 48MP Nightscape Camera — all in one slim, lightweight and trendy package. 4. Infinix HOT 10i Packed with a massive 6000 mAh battery, a fast gaming Mediatek Helio P65 chipset, and a 4GB RAM + 128GB storage, HOT 10i levels up the experience of mainstream users and avid gamers. With a sleek 6.52” waterdrop high-brightness screen display, it offers a premium mobile experience powered by the best battery life in its product range. Aside from its top tier hardware, Infinix HOT 10i also carries proprietary Infinix innovations like the Dar-link gaming optimization engine, which reduces jitter and lag to provide a fast and fluid gaming experience, as well as Safe Charge technology, which automatically turns off power after a device has charged to 100%. 5. TECNO’s New CAMON 17 Series
CAMON 17 Pro is equipped with a 48MP Clearest Selfie Camera in front, and a 64MP Ultra-Quad camera at the rear. This smartphone is powered by a Helio G95 processor with a 90Hz screen refresh rate, plus a long-lasting 5000mAh battery which comes with a 33W fast charger. CAMON 17 Pro comes in California dream silver and Malibu blue for the 8GB+256GB variant. The budget-friendlier CAMON 17P has a 16MP AI Smart Selfie Camera and 64MP Ultra-Clear Quad camera at the rear, runs on a Helio G85 processor, and also has a powerful 5000mAh battery with 18W
D2 || SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2021
Navigating through a digital, pandemic world 5th Tech & Gadgets Anniversary issue
Boosting connectivity with digital infrastructure S By P.Y. Deligero
INCE the internet was created in 1983, new platforms and innovations have been made, playing a relevant role in the modernization of the world. Now, many people’s lives revolve around the internet and technology because of its many benefits of making life easier.
During the past two years, the internet has proven to be a valuable commodity that kept society functioning despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses have found a new platform in the digital space, allowing them to continue their operations, while students still managed to learn new things through distance learning as they took their activities online. An internet connection also helped keep many people wellinformed and sane as the world was at a standstill. Through the various social media platforms, streaming websites, online news platforms, and entertainment apps, people found a way to stay up-to-date with the latest events without having to leave their homes. Online games and messaging apps also kept people occupied, fostering connections, both new and already established. But even though many people enjoy the benefits of the internet and technology, there are still some problems that need to be addressed for users to enjoy their full potential. In the Philippines, the common struggle when it comes to the internet is its speed and connection strength. There are only a few network providers in the country, with each having limitations to their services. Internet users have already voiced their concerns about not having access to a particular network provider in their area or experiencing frequent technical problems that keep them from finishing their tasks or finding a quick way to be informed or entertained. Such occurrences have been constant among various areas for years, thus adding to the users’ frustration. THE COUNTRY’S CURRENT STATUS According to data from the government, as of January 2021, there are roughly 74 million internet users in the country. But 33 percent or a third of the country doesn’t have an internet connection, thus depriving people in these areas of any vital digital information and services from the government or private sectors. This presses the need for the national government to start investing in information and communications technology infrastructure, especially now that the internet has become an integral part of the new normal. Compared to other Asian countries, the Philippines falls behind when it comes to having the digital infrastructure needed to sustain an internet connection for the many Filipinos who need it for their daily needs. Digital infrastructures refer to digital technologies that provide the foundation for an organization’s information technology and operations. This includes internet backbone, broadband, mobile telecom, and digital communication suites, including apps. With only 17,850 telecommunication towers in the country, there’s still a long way to go before it matches up to the more
than 50,000 telecommunication towers of Thailand and the 90,000 in Vietnam, respectively. The development in digital infrastructures could greatly help people in far-flung areas to gain access to an internet connection. Aside from that, having more telecommunication towers can also address the biggest problem that internet users have: connectivity. Unknown to many, the basic reason why internet connections in many parts of the country are limited is that there are around 4,000 users per tower, congesting the available service that should have been accessible to more. In comparison to Vietnam and Thailand, which have 756 and 991 users per tower, respectively, the Philippines still has a long way to go before it meets the demands of its internet users through the establishment of more digital infrastructures. SOME WAYS TO BUILD BETTER DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURES There are several ways to improve digital infrastructures in the Philippines. While building more telecommunication towers is one viable way to get started, there are some other approaches to consider. One is to establish the proper regulatory and industry policies to encourage investment. Having fragmented regulatory regimes add unnecessary costs for infrastructure operators. But standardized regulations and policies can help reduce the cost of research and development, network deployment, and operation. Policies and regulations need to encourage growth and create a healthy market environment to enable stakeholders to invest in the digital infrastructures of a country. Another way is to find approaches to reduce the cost of network infrastructures. This includes making decisions such as providing wireless services than fixed ones because these are cheaper and faster for operators to deploy.
Online Class Must-Haves: Exclusive Home Credit Promos for your BTS Needs “BTS is here once again!” Not your favorite KPop group though, just our annual Back-To-School routine. Since the saga of online and remote classes continues, so is the search for items and devices that will help you pass your classes with flying colors. So, get your shopping list ready because the country’s leading provider of in-store financing and digital financial services Home Credit will be your shopping partner for your back-to-school essentials. They’ve got all the must-haves for every type of student, with exclusive deals and offers just for you: THE TECH-SAVVY For students who are always on the lookout for the latest gadgets to use for their online classes, these promos will let you get them with discounts and freebies from brands like Samsung, Asus, Oppo, RealMe, Vivo and Huawei. A smartphone, laptop or tablet is probably at the top of the list to get by with remote learning. By visiting and shopping at My Home Credit App’s Marketplace, you can have them for as low as P1,200/month. C Cellzone also has enticing offers for you. For every purchase of a smartphone, accessories like Bluetooth speakers, smart watches or wireless neckbands are bundled for free. And the super affordable monthly installment of at least P800 will surely make you want to avail without thinking twice. THE ACCESSORY-LOVING The right mobile accessories will truly improve any study-from-home experience. Invest on the best ones by shopping at Rulls and score exclusive discounts from leading brands when you avail through Home Credit. Choose the perfect pair for your mobile device from a wide variety of accessories like protective cases and covers, stands and holders, hubs and ports and so much more. THE DIY ENTHUSIAST Are you a DIY type of person? Then create a DIY online class space - find the right spot then fill it in with a table, lampshade, clock and some decorations or tools from home improvement and hardware store,
Handyman. If the combined purchase is P3000 or more using a Home Credit loan, an umbrella is yours for free (which is another must-have this rainy season!) THE SETUP-OBSESSED If you have enough budget and want to complete your online class setup then this promo has got you covered. You can have a Home Credit loan of up to P16,000 or more from Robinsons Appliances*. Add in some other BTS essentials – a printer, projector or speaker system so you can take on any task and achieve the ultimate online class experience. Plus, you’ll receive either a free lunch kit or a 3-fold umbrella, whichever you choose. Robinsons Appliances has a wide selection of devices ranging from mobile phones, tablets, laptops, equipment and accessories. Not only were you able to purchase some online school devices, but you also have a freebie to go with it. Avail these exciting promos available to all Home Credit customers at any nearest partner retail store nationwide, with simple requirements and fast oneminute approval. If you want to shop at the comfort of your home, you can also check the My Home Credit App for more details. Promo runs from August 29 to September 19, 2021 so hurry and shop now! As an additional special treat, SM Store Cubao branch is also offering discounts on furniture for online schooling. To get the complete list of items and offers for these promos, go to www.homecredit.ph or follow them on www.facebook.com/homecreditph. *Handyman - DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB126183 Series of 2021.
Infrastructure sharing is also necessary to reduce costs. Site acquisition and civil engineering are significant deployment costs, but sharing of civil engineerings such as ducts, towers, and power lines can reduce costs significantly. Lastly, the Philippines must enhance collaborations with those in the information and com-
munication technology industry. Having such a collaboration among players in the industry to harmonize technology requires cooperation among vendors, operators, and the entire ecosystem to maximize synergy. WHY IS HAVING DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURES IMPORTANT? Many people consider the stability of an internet connection to be the top concern that digital infrastructures should address. But there’s more to them than just keeping users online and connected. In many rural areas, having improved internet services through digital infrastructures helps support innovations in various industries that keep a country afloat. This includes farming, construction, and mining. As for urban areas, improved services can help people access platforms and services that address their daily needs or more. Examples of these are delivery services, food, retail, news agencies, government agencies, and medical care. Improved connectivity and accessibility is only the direct benefit of having digital infrastructure developments. If given proper attention, digital infrastructures can increase economic growth because it helps build new businesses and create new jobs, improves the sustainability of cities by solving complex problems, and adopting new technologies. With the world continuously evolving and moving towards modernization, digital infrastructures play a key role in keeping economies alive, helping people stay connected and active, and allowing different industries to function more efficiently and sustainably.
Emoney, digital wallet: The new normal for commerce By Rommel Bong R. Fuertes Jr. ECOMMERCE or electronic commerce has been the norm for the better part of last year and it still is a huge draw until now. In hindsight, with electronic commerce comes electronic wallets. PayMaya and GCash are online wallets that accommodate individuals to buy and pay for services without the need for physical money. It has linked with banks such as BDO, Metrobank and many more. GCash and PayMaya may be used for ecommerce purposes, arguably an essential these days since establishments are slowly moving away from physical currency to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Grab, Shopee and Lazada have collaborated with e-wallets to establish online paying methods such as GrabPay, ShopeePay and LazWallet. This eliminates the decreasing use of physical money by using digital wallets to pay for their services, I.e. you can transfer money from your banks to these applications to buy items, book a ride, or pay bills without the hassle of the physical of face-to-face payment. This also helps to decrease physical interaction of riders in the Cash on Delivery method. An admirable thing about these electronic wallets are their accessibility. To be verified with these online fund applications, all you need is one government backed identifications cards. Postal I.D., National I.D., Driver’s License and Passport are accepted for verification. HAND IN HAND WITH TRANSPORTATION The transportation issue is also being fixed by modern day e-wallets. Other than Grab, another transportation necessity are the highways such as NLEX, TPLEX, SCTEX and SLEX – paving the way for the emergence of RFIDs. The DOTr heavily promotes the use of RFID to decrease the use for physical money. The hassle of paying in toll fees can easily
fixed at home with the help of online payment platforms. Digital banks and e-wallets like China Bank, BDO, GCash, Paymaya and Unionbank offer services of paying or loading your vehicles’ RFID to obtain the allowance of passing through expressways. With a few clicks, you can load up your RFID with the money from your e-wallet in the comfort of your own home. Digital wallets may be used by consumers but it can also be a big help for small business owners. With a number of people open to the idea of starting their own businesses, GCash supports their cause by having their earned money given to them in realtime. GCash also offers the GInvest feature, wherein one could easily invest from 501,000 pesos to a stock of their choice. Paymaya has also come to the aid of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. To enable MSMEs to accept QR, bank transfers, and e-wallet payments via mobile phones, Paymaya introduced its Paymaya Negosyo App, which also allows these small firms to become community outlets for bills payment and digital goods like telecom load and gaming pins. Today, PayMaya provides financial services to over 38 million Filipinos, with customers being able to pay, add money, cash out or remit through its more than 300,000 digital touchpoints across the country.
Navigating through a digital, pandemic world 5th Tech & Gadgets Anniversary issue
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2021
D3
Gadgets, appliances, tech items... From D1 2. LG OLED TVs
LG OLED TVs come with the latest solutions from Dolby. Dolby Vision IQ utilizes metadata and the TVs’ built-in light sensors to optimize picture quality based on content genre and ambient surroundings while Dolby Atmos simultaneously delivers multi-dimensional immersive sound. It’s a powerful combination that provides a more realistic experience when watching a film. LG OLED TVs also have extremely low input lag with an incredible 1ms response time. This ensures that every move you input on the controller is displayed instantly on screen, giving you a vital edge over opponents and a better chance of winning. LG OLED TVs use the precision and control of individual selflit pixels to take full advantage of the G-SYNC compatibility, allowing fast response times and smoother gaming, even at high resolution. LG OLED TVs use self-lit pixels instead of backlights. This allows for more innovative designs that are ultra-slim, have almost no bezels, and can even bend and roll — it’s a feat of engineering that has to be seen to be believed. The LG OLED Gallery Design TVs has a profile so slim that it appears stuck to your wall. It hangs flush like a work of art, elevating your home interior like no other TV can. 3. Samsung Neo QLED 8K Samsung Neo QLED 8K TV is a good purchase if you are looking to upgrade your entertainment system. Powered with the Neo Quantum Processor 8K, Samsung’s most powerful processor, you’ll get a picture optimized to 8K-level resolution no matter what’s on the screen. Watch, work, and play easily with Neo QLED 8K. See it all on a single screen with the multi-Screen feature to simultaneously show 4 different screens, all at once. 4. realme Smart TV With the realme Smart TV’s one-touch google assistant and all-in-one smart remote, it can easily access the weather, calendar, and several apps under Google. Filipinos can also now also enjoy a cinematic experience at home with the realme Smart TV’s Dolby Audio Speakers, not to mention 24W quad stereo speakers, creating a surround sound effect designed for vast rooms, thereby increasing the overall immersive experience without compromising the sound quality. The bezel-less design is a plus, with a 1366 x 768-pixel resolution for the 32-inch model, and a 1920 x 1080-pixel resolution for the 43-inch. It also comes with HDR10 support, HLG, and Realme’s Chroma Boost technology that’s also present in realme smartphones. Beko’s new tech will keep vitamins in your fresh produce longer 5. Beko’s HarvestFresh HarvestFresh refrigerators from Beko keeps fruits and vegetables fresh longer through technology that preserves vitamins A and C for up to five additional days, as verified and approved by leading Total Quality Assurance provider Intertek Laboratories. HarvestFresh uses three colors, green, blue and red, to mimic the 24-hour sun cycle and natural sunlight. This combination simulates the day light cycle–including times of darkness–to recreate a natural living environment for fruits and vegetables. This technology helps maintain vitamin A and vitamin C levels in fruits and vegetables much longer. During the first four hours of the HarvestFresh cycle, the crisper lights will shine blue, mimicking dawn and the first light of the day. This is followed by two hours of green light replicating midday, and a further six hours of red light imitating the more muted tones of dusk. The drawers then turn dark for 12 hours to represent nighttime. HarvestFresh not only preserves vitamin content, but also helps keep fruit and vegeta-
bles fresher and thus, reduces the number of times you have to go out and shop for food. This is very important in these times, particularly as the public has been urged to stay at home if they can. OTHERS Here are some more tech items to consider during the pandemic. 1. 6.5L XTREME Home Air Fryer (XHAIRFRYER65L) Goodbye overheating, hello fast frying! This new 6.5L XTREME Home Air Fryer (sure packs a punch with its roast, bake, broil and dehydrate features. If you’ve been looking for the best way to eat your favorite food in a healthier and hassle-free way, then this one takes the cake. With its bigger cooking capacity, you don’t have to worry when cooking for the whole family. 2. LG’s PuriCare™ Wearable Air Purifier LG’s re-engineered PuriCare™ Wearable Air Purifier is upgraded from the innovative, wearable device LG first launched last year. The latest model offers an enhanced all-around performance along with a convenient voice amplification feature and a more comfortable, lightweight design. The upgraded LG PuriCare™ Wearable Air Purifier with VoiceON™ is equipped with a fully automatic fan airflow control system that increases breathing comfort. It also incorporates two H13 HEPA filters, the same as those found in premium air purifiers for the home, to ensure the air the user breathes is as clean and healthy as possible. Driven by an ultra-small and lightweight motor, the device’s DUAL fans combine with LG’s airflow control technology – which detects the user’s breathing pattern and adjusts airflow accordingly – to help the wearer breathe easier and more naturally. This advanced system also prevents a common problem for those wearing glasses and mask at the same time, keeping their lenses from fogging up when exhaling. 3. PLDT Home Fibr-powered WiFi 6 gaming router This nextgeneration WiFi technology is now accessible to Filipinos, especially among the rising esports communities, as PLDT Home offers the best WiFi 6 router in the country— the ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000. PLDT Home Fibr enables gamers to enjoy faster and better gaming experience as it delivers speeds of up to 1Gbps that allow equal upload and download speeds, best for multi-player and bandwidth-intensive online activities. Aside from speeds, PLDT Home also gives gamers a levelled-up experience with its WiFi 6 gaming router. The ASUS ROG Rapture GTAX11000 is known as “the beast of WiFi 6 gaming routers” as it boasts of the most powerful router features for gamers such as the AiMesh Technology that ensures “whole home WiFi coverage” and WTFast Gaming Network Technology that optimizes connectivity for ultra-fast speeds. 4. HP Deskjet Ink Advantage All-in-One printers A printer that customers should seriously consider is the HP Deskjet ink advantage allin-one printer line: the 2335, 2336, 2337, and 2775; plus, the 3776 AiO wireless and the 3777 AiO Wireless. Any of these models carry with it the HP guarantee of dependable and consistent printing and scanning. It can print no less than 200 pages a month and it only requires a simple plug and play setup using a USB port, resulting to great values for everyday practical use. Meanwhile, for the AiO wireless printers, it offers the additional convenience of remote, low-cost printing and scanning done from any mobile device.
AllDay provides fast and convenient self-checkout
grocery shopping experience with PayMaya
CUSTOMERS of Filipino-owned AllDay Supermarket can now self-checkout their groceries through its pioneering cashierless counters in two simple steps: scan the items and pay using any debit, credit, or prepaid card or PayMaya QR through PayMaya ONE terminals. A first for the Philippine retail industry, AllDay Supermarket introduced the concept early this year at its Evia Lifestyle Center branch and its Libis branch. These branches are equipped with PayMaya ONE terminals, allowing AllDay to accept digital payments via PayMaya QR and any credit, debit, or prepaid card, as well as other e-wallets. After trying out the new self-checkout counters, local shoppers have expressed excitement and delight over the unique retail experience.
merchants, meanwhile, need to have the capability to accept different digital payment methods such as card and QR payments via banks and e-wallets—or risk losing a sale. Retailers also have to consider factors such as limited display space for multiple card terminals and QR standees and the security and efficiency of the payment platform. AllDay has been continuously innovating their stores to provide the best service to customers and to outpace the Philippine landscape of supermarkets. Placing selfcheckout counters with PayMaya’s technology is a new feature in their stores that provides convenience and efficiency to their customers as well as safety during the pandemic. “We are proud to power AllDay Supermarket’s selfcheckout terminals. Contactless solutions are the way to go for on-ground retail transactions. At PayMaya, we are enabling enterprise customers like AllDay with the tools to power their retail innovations,” said Shailesh Baidwan, President at PayMaya. AllDay’s trailblazing move underscores the reality that digital transactions have gone beyond measures of modernization and convenience, having taken on greater relevance —if not urgency—amidst COVID-19, with social distancing measures now ingrained as part of the norm. “I recommend self-checkout lalo ngayong pandemic,” said Laanan. “Magandang ini-implement para less yung hawaan.” (I recommend the use of self-checkout counters, especially with the pandemic. It will lessen the transmission of the virus). AllDay aims to roll out more self-checkout counters AllDay customer uses the self-checkout counter to pay for in different branches nationwide. her grocery items at AllDay EVIA Lifestyle branch. Aside from powering AllDay’s pioneering selfcheckout counters, PayMaya has brought a safer and “Mas madali ang self-checkout counters. Hindi na more convenient payment experience to the grocery kailangang pumila ng mahaba. Hindi na kailangan chain’s 33 physical stores and online commerce site, hintayin matapos yung customer na nasa unahan mo,” www.allday.com.ph said Leony Labos, a regular customer of AllDay who PayMaya is the only end-to-end digital payments uses the self-checkout service. ecosystem enabler in the Philippines, with platforms (Self-checkout counters are easier. There are no long and services that cut across consumers, merchants, lines. You don’t need to wait long for the customer in communities, and government. front of you). It provides more than 38 million Filipinos with access “Yung first time siyempre nakaka-nerbiyos. Pero once to financial services through its consumer platforms. na matutunan mo na yung steps, okay na, magagamay Customers can conveniently pay, add money, cash out mo na,” said Emman Laanan, another customer who or remit through its over 300,000 digital touchpoints tried out AllDay’s self-checkout counter in Libis. nationwide. Its Smart Padala by PayMaya network of (I was nervous when I tried it for the first time, but over 55,000 partner agent touchpoints serves as lastwhen I learned about the steps, it was easy to navigate). mile digital financial hubs in communities, providing Beyond keeping up with the times, retail establishments the unbanked and underserved access to digital services. such as AllDay Supermarket have practical reasons to Through its enterprise business, it is the largest digital embrace technologies that provide convenience and payments processor for key industries in the country, efficiency to their customers and operations. including “every day” merchants such as the largest Consumers in the New Normal prefer fast, safe, retail, food, gas, and eCommerce merchants, as well as and rewarding digital payment transactions. Retail government agencies and units.
UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL:
CHERRY INTRODUCES THE AQUA S10 PRO
AFTER the resounding success of its Aqua Series launch, just a few months later and Cherry Mobile is once again back with a bang! The brand is truly committed to evolving with the lifestyle of every Filipino as it announces its newest flagship phone, the Cherry Mobile Aqua S10 Pro. Cherry Mobile’s first ever smartphone that runs on Android 11, with 30W super-fast charge capability, and features a punch-hole display retails at P7,999. “As Filipinos are spending extra time indoors, they are becoming more immersed in new hobbies. With years of adapting to the ever-changing needs of our market, Cherry Mobile now wants to offer a handset that will not only keep up with their evolving lifestyle but would even unlock their potential,” shares Lonson Alejandrino, AVP for Product, CHERRY.
FOR THE NEXT INTERNET SENSATION Whatever you’re good at, unlock your potential with the Cherry Mobile Aqua S10 Pro. Here’s how: Kicking off your dream vlogging career? Wanting to be the next TikTok icon? Browse for pegs and never miss out on any of your idol’s posts on the Cherry Mobile Aqua S10 Pro’s massive 6.67” FHD+ Trueview Punch-hole Display. Your breakthrough video that will launch you to stardom is also within reach as this phone boasts of Quad AI Camera 48MP (Main) + 5MP (Wide-Angle) + 2MP (Macro) + 2MP (Depth) and 16MP front camera for better video quality. FOR THE BUDDING ENTREPRENEUR More than a year of staying at home gave rise to online sellers. Are you part of this resourceful and
strategic community? Whether you promote your items through live selling or carefully curate the photos of your products on Facebook, Instagram, and other e-commerce platforms, this is the chance to level up your retailing stint with a phone that fits your budget. Its 6GB RAM allows you to multitask and open demanding apps simultaneously. It also has a 108 MP Super Pixel camera feature which gives way to more detailed photos as well as bright and vivid images in different lighting conditions, so you can snap photos of your products even without the help of a trusty ring light. Online businesses sure can be demanding so another feature of this phone that can make your life easier is its 10W Wireless Charging Capability. It is perfect for the onthe-go entrepreneurs as you can swiftly pick up your phone and say goodbye to tangled cords. Just imagine the convenience! FOR THE CASUAL GAMER Playing outside the professional e-gaming sphere but a streamer in the making? This budget-friendly phone is also surefire to unlock your gaming potential. It boasts of a Mediatek Helio G90 chipset for smooth gaming experience, a highly responsive screen, and brilliant image quality. You may also enjoy the thrill for long hours with the Aqua S10 Pro’s 30W Pump Express 2.0 fast-charging. It also allows you to store a number of games so you can explore where you excel best with its 128GB UFS 2.1.
Torn between choosing a phone that doesn’t hurt your pockets or one that enhances your lifestyle and unlocks your potential? Cherry Mobile says, “why not both?” Enjoy the best of both worlds with the Cherry Mobile Aqua S10 Pro. Hurry and get it now at Cherry Mobile stores, kiosks, and CHERRY Concept Stores nationwide or the following official CHERRY online stores: Cherry Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph Lazada: http://bit.ly/CherryLazadaFlagshipStore Shopee: https://bit.ly/CherryMobileShopeeStore
LG’s new monitor line creates an immersive experience to meet every user’s needs By P.Y. Deligero
W
ORKING from home has become a part of the new normal that Filipinos have adapted to. This sudden shift from an office setting to a home-based alternative has forced many to consider a home office setup. While many were quick to adjust to the new norm, the same can’t be said for everyone. Not all workspaces were conducive to productivity, as many home-based employees have found out. Their current workspace, if they had any, lacked the hardware to keep their units running at their best capacity and monitors were among those that received high demand from the public. With the right monitor, users can expect a better workfrom-home experience and an elevated gaming and creative design experience to boot. LG Electronics has recognized the need for better monitors by introducing its latest line-up, which provides a better and more productive workspace and an optimized gaming and creative design experience to boot. “As the whole world made an abrupt pivot into working- from- home, the need to provide monitors that deliver results
From left are: LG Philippines Managing Director Sungjae Kim, LG Monitors Brand Ambassador Luis Manzano, LG Philippines Product Director for Monitors Peter Uhm
and promise productivity was crucial. The latest series of monitors deliver superior productivity and entertainment experiences that are perfect for both home and office use,” said LG Philippines managing director Sungjae Kim.
LG Monitors Brand Ambassador Luis Manzano for LG Standard Monitor
Gamer, cosplayer, and content creator Myrtle Sarrosa for LG UltraGear™ monitor
Actor and director Joross Gamboa for LG UltraWide™ monitor
Photographer Magic Liwanag for LG UltraFine Monitor
NEW MONITORS, NEW SPECS There are four types of monitors included in LG’s newest monitor line. First is the LG UltraWide™ monitors, which provide an immersive experience made possible by its extra-wide 21:9 IPS that boasts of true color accuracy and wide angles. It offers 33 percent more screen space than the regular 16:9 aspect ratio. Users can enjoy an unencumbered view even when they’re switching between applications. The LG UltraWide™ also has an AMD FreeSync technology that eliminates the tearing difference between the graphics card’s frame rate and the monitor’s refresh rate, allowing for a better gaming experience. Another monitor from LG’s newest line is the UltraFine Display Ergo. This monitor boasts of a flexible ergonomic stand that can adapt to meet the environmental characteristics of each user. LG’s technologically and ergonomically advanced stand helps to promote good posture through its high degree of adjustability, enabling each user to create a perfectly customized workstation. LG also leveled-up its Standard Monitors with its IPS Full HD Display technology that highlights the performance of liquid crystal displays, shortens response time, improves color reproduction, and allows users to view the screen at wide angles. It also offers an ergonomic design with its convenient tilt adjustments and clean unibody design that creates an optimized work environment. Eye strain is reduced thanks to the flicker safe technology, reader mode, and color weakness feature. Besides users engaged in a work from home scenario, LG also developed new monitors to cater to gamers who value crisp visuals, clarity, and a fast response time from their computers. To meet this demand, the LG UltraGear™ line of monitors was created. LG UltraGear™ is an NVIDIAtested and officially verified G-Sync® compatible monitor that reduces screen tearing and minimizes stutter for a smoother, faster gaming experience. Being able to see even the most dynamic and fast-moving objects amidst all the action can give gamers a competitive edge that can help them clinch victory. The new line of monitors was introduced to the local market through a livestream event called LG Monitors: Performance Beyond Boundaries hosted on LG’s social media channels. It was hosted by LG brand ambassador Luis Manzano and featured several other influencers who have experienced the new line of monitors, such as actor and director Joross Gamboa, photographer Magic Liwanag, and gamer, cosplayer, and content creator Myrtle Sarrosa. Always at the forefront of innovation, LG has turned an unfortunate situation into an opportunity to improve available technology and meet consumer demands, allowing for better gaming, content creating, or work experience. LG’s newest line of monitors is available in all authorized dealers nationwide, both in-store and online. Visit lg.com.ph for a complete list of retail partners or LG’s Official Flagship Stores on Lazada and Shopee.